As the picture went viral, Tapping decided to defend herself and her family on her Facebook page for money-saving tips.

She wrote that for one, the presents were for her whole family, not just her kids.

She said that some of the rumors floating around were that she had her first child at 14, which she said wasn't true.

"Please try and remember this is about three little children, their Christmas, their tree," she wrote.

The whole experience was totally shocking, Tapping said. She said she wanted to dispel the notion she was "bragging" about her presents, and said she never expected to share the picture with the world.

She said that even though her picture was stolen and mocked without her consent, she isn't going to let her experience ruin her holiday.

"I love Christmas and I shop savvy to give [my kids] a good Christmas," she said. "I would happily help anyone find the bargains or give tips on how I save. I think how I spend my money on my children is my choice. You may not agree, but this is three little kids' Christmas tree being blasted."